Huntington Cares

Huntington Cares

"The warmth you feel here is real. I am so grateful for their genuinely
caring approach."

The Initial Diagnosis

When initially diagnosed with breast cancer, it is not uncommon to experience
feelings of shock, anger, disbelief, grief and uncertainty. Most women
state that upon hearing their diagnosis they heard or remembered little
what was said after that point. Their fears took control as they recalled
all that they knew or heard about breast cancer in the past. You need
to realize that breast cancer is usually a very treatable disease. Survival
rates are at an all-time high. You have time to sort through your feelings,
fears and emotions – to seek answers to your questions without endangering
your health. When meeting with your physician bring a support person with
you such as your partner or spouse, a family member or a trusted friend.
This individual will be your second set of eyes and ears. In addition
to providing both physical and emotional support, this person can take
notes and/or ask questions you may forget to ask. This will provide you
the opportunity to focus on what your physician is saying. A relationship
built on trust, respect, and good communication between you and your doctor
is important in helping you make critical life-saving decisions.

The doctors, nurses and care providers at the Huntington Hospital Breast
Cancer Center are here for you. We share your challenges and successes
as we guide you through your personal journey.

Moving Forward

When you reach the end of active breast cancer treatment, you may feel
ready to move on with your life, but this isn’t always easy. You
may struggle to come to terms with what you have been through. You have
functioned for a long period of time in a protected environment, in constant
communication with healthcare professionals who have closely monitored
your progress. Some patients feel a “separation anxiety”.
Though these fears will dissipate with time, it is important that you
share these feelings, concerns and fears.

Life after treatment can be a stressful time. One may grow anxious, depressed
or lonely. Some women feel compelled to act as if they are fine even if
they are not. That is why it is important to remember that recovery is
a process. The simple fact of cancer treatment ending does not automatically
make one strong and well. The gradual pace of recovery, which sometimes
takes longer than treatment, is often a surprise to patients, family members
and friends. Emotional and physical support is as important now as it
was during your initial course of treatment. Therefore, it is important
that you communicate with your family and friends and let them know that,
even though you may look well, you still require time, patience and support
during your transition to wellness.